
Some weddings are just vibes, and Catlin and David’s day was that kind of perfect. Their wedding effortlessly blended personal history, timeless beauty, and intentional design with a ceremony under the open sky at the Oliver Mansion Gardens and a reception inside the iconic Studebaker National Museum. And yes, they even had a guest appearance from a few… blue ghosts.
The outdoor ceremony beneath the Oliver Mansion pergola was nothing short of magical. Catlin’s walk down that long garden aisle felt like the start of a love story already in motion and it was. These two have been building a life together piece by piece, and this ceremony was the moment it all clicked into place.
What made it even more special? Their handwritten vows. Catlin shared that she was nervous to read them aloud, but both of them agreed: it was absolutely worth it. The words they shared were raw, honest, and beautifully them.
Catlin found her gown at Brides for a Cause, a nonprofit bridal boutique where every purchase helps fund charitable initiatives. The dress itself? Tailored elegance. Classic lines, effortless comfort, and a custom lace hem that tied it all together. And while she may have needed her mom to spot “the one,” once it was hers, there was no question.
Hosting their reception at the Studebaker Museum wasn’t just a coincidence. It was a full-circle moment David had proposed earlier that same day after a morning spent exploring the very same halls. That made walking back in as newlyweds feel all the more surreal.
Their design choices leaned mid-century modern—think classic with a pop of fun. Catlin designed all their stationery herself, and if the color palette leaned a little pink-heavy? That’s what planning a wedding teaches you: what you really love. Even if it surprises you.
Let’s talk about that cake topper. A pair of cardinals sat on top of their cake a sweet nod to a little bird they once befriended on campus. The cardinal would show up for lunch and occasionally bring his mate or his son. Yeah, it was as adorable as it sounds.
Oh, and the blue ghosts? Let’s just say someone summoned a few spontaneous guests for the dance floor. But hey, when the vibes are this good, even ghosts wanna party.
From the very beginning, Catlin and David made it clear they wanted their wedding day captured with a balance of professionalism and play. They wanted someone who could go with the flow, keep things stress-free, and still make magic happen behind the camera. And we were honored to be that team.
Don’t overthink the timeline—just stay in the moment.
Give your guests disposable or instant cameras so you can relive the night through their lens.
You don’t need a huge guest list to have a huge impact. Small weddings can be incredibly powerful.
Let go of the “perfect wedding” narrative. Focus on what feels like you.
Catlin and David’s Wedding Day Vendors:
Ceremony Venue: Oliver Mansion Gardens // Reception Venue: Studebaker National Museum // Catering: The Landing // Florals: Kathy Peters // Rentals: Burns // Bridal Gown: Brides for a Cause // Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse // Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal // Cake: Macri’s // Hair & Makeup: Roula & Georgio Salon and Spa // Ketubah: Karla Gudeon // Rings: Smith and Bevill Jewelers
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We’re Westley Leon Studios, a team of wedding photographers in South Bend, Indiana with an unwavering commitment to authentic imagery and a personal experience. For the couples who choose a damn good time over stuffy propriety every time.
Studio Address: 218 Front St Niles, MI 49120
Mailing Address: 1606 Oak St Niles MI 49120
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